Barnsley Libraries unveils The Story Shell, a unique and functional art space created by international artists Steve Messam and Suzie Devey.
An air-filled space in the shape of a seashell, measuring 9 metres long and 4.5 metres high, will be able to fit a class of 20 children inside and can be transported across the borough. The Story Shell is set to host arts-based activities, storytelling, music, theatre and more.
This Saturday (14 September) as part of Barnsley Garden Party in the Glass Works Square, people will be able to see and explore The Story Shell for the first time.
Cllr Wendy Cain, Cabinet Spokesperson for Public Health and Communities, said: “Barnsley Libraries continue to break the boundaries and bring art and culture for our local communities and visitors to enjoy.
“The Story Shell is something that’s never been seen before and we hope that this new art space, which will be able to travel across Barnsley, will spark the creative imagination of our future generation.”
Steve Messam, an artist, said: “The Story Shell has been a very exciting and ambitious project to work on and it’s a testament to Barnsley Libraries for thinking out of the box and thinking big.
“Suzie and I are very excited for the local people to see The Story Shell in person and experience that ‘wow’ factor when you walk inside.”
Suzie Devey, an artist, said: “You know that feeling when you’re a child and you find a fabulous shell on the beach, you put it to your ear and hear the sea? I wanted to recreate that sense of wonder and adventure that children feel.
“The Story Shell is huge, unlike shells on the beach, so it will definitely will not be missed! And to inspire children's creativity even further, inside, there’s a map with seven story plots, filled with characters to create your own stories.”
Shortly, we will be announcing locations and a list of activities that The Story Shell will be hosting, so keep an eye on Barnsley Libraries' social media channels for the latest updates.
Suzie Devey is a printmaker who seeks to ignite creative conversations that can make a difference in people’s lives. Her works are rooted in the belief that art has the power to inspire, challenge and transform individuals and communities.
Steve Messam is an environmental artist based in County Durham and working internationally. His ephemeral site-specific installations re-imagine every day, interrupting historical landscapes and vacant architecture to help us perceive the familiar environment in a new way.
The project is part of Barnsley Libraries creative commissions and the National Portfolio Organisation programme to bring arts and culture to local communities in Barnsley, funded by Arts Council England.
